If you are currently working as a Level II non-commissioned (unarmed) security officer in Texas, you already understand the fundamentals of the private security industry. However, if you want to increase your earning potential, qualify for armed security positions, and advance into supervisory or specialized security roles, upgrading to a Level 3 Security License is the next step.
A Level 3 Security License allows you to legally carry a firearm while on duty and perform commissioned security officer duties throughout Texas. Whether you live in Austin, Houston, San Antonio, Dallas, Fort Worth, Waco, Lubbock, Amarillo, Midland, or El Paso, the process is the same statewide.
This guide explains exactly how to upgrade from Level II to Level III and become a commissioned security officer in Houston.
Key Takeaways
- A Level 3 Security License allows you to work as an armed commissioned security officer in Texas.
- You must complete Level II training before enrolling in Level III.
- Level III training includes online classroom instruction and in-person firearms qualification.
- Texas DPS requires fingerprinting, background screening, MMPI testing, and employer sponsorship.
- AEPS Academy allows you to complete the required theory training online.
- Armed security officers often qualify for higher-paying positions and expanded career opportunities.
Step 1: Verify Your Prerequisite Eligibility
Before enrolling in Level III training, Texas Private Security Bureau requirements include:
- Completion of Level II Non-Commissioned Security Officer Training
- Minimum age of 18 years old
- Legal authorization to work in the United States
- Eligibility to possess a firearm under state and federal law
- Successful completion of background screening requirements
Many employers in Houston prefer candidates with prior security experience before moving into armed positions.
Step 2: Complete Your Level III Part 1 (Theory) Online
Texas requires Level III applicants to complete state-approved training before applying for a commissioned security officer license.
Through AEPS Academy, students can complete Part 1 (Theory) online and at their own pace.
Training topics include:
- Texas security laws and administrative rules
- Use of force and deadly force laws
- Ethics and professional conduct
- Emergency response procedures
- Conflict resolution
- Tactical report writing
- Public interaction and situational awareness
Upon successful completion, students receive their official PSP-30 Certificate directly through their student dashboard.
Complete Your Houston Level III Class Online
Skip the commute and complete your required classroom instruction from home.
AEPS Academy provides Texas PSB-approved online Level III training designed for working security professionals throughout Houston.
Step 3: Complete Your Part 2 Firearms & Defensive Tactics Training
After completing the online theory portion, students must complete the required practical training with a certified instructor.
Defensive Tactics Training
This portion includes:
- Officer safety
- Situational awareness
- Defensive tactics
- Handcuffing procedures
- Threat assessment
Firearms Qualification
Students must demonstrate:
- Safe firearm handling
- Range safety procedures
- Firearms proficiency
- Live-fire qualification
This practical training can be completed with an approved instructor serving the Houston area.
How Do I Purchase and Complete the Required Training?
As part of your TOPS registration, you must complete your required training before moving forward with the licensing process.
This video walks you step-by-step through how to:
- Go to the AEPS website
- Select the correct course
- Add it to your cart
- Complete checkout
- Pay securely
- Log into your account
- Access your training dashboard
Follow each step carefully.
Once you complete payment, you are officially enrolled and can begin your training immediately through the AEPS portal.
Students can access their courses through the Login | My Account section located at the top right corner of the AEPS website.
How Do I Register with TOPS?
Before you can begin working as a commissioned security officer in Texas, you must register through the Texas Online Private Security (TOPS) system.
This video walks you step-by-step through the registration process.
It shows you how to:
- Go to the TOPS website
- Start your application
- Choose the correct license type
- Pay your state fees
- Complete fingerprinting
- Upload required documents
Watch this video carefully and follow each step exactly as shown.
You are not authorized to work until your registration requirements are completed and approved.
Step 4: Submit Your Application Through TOPS
Once you have completed your training, firearms qualification, and TOPS registration requirements, you can move forward with submitting your application package for state review.
Required items typically include:
- Level III completion certificate
- Firearms qualification documentation
- Fingerprinting results
- MMPI evaluation
- Employer sponsorship
- Applicable DPS fees
After approval, Texas DPS will issue your commissioned security officer registration.
Career Opportunities After Earning a Level 3 Security License
A Level 3 Security License can open doors to a wide range of security positions in Houston, including:
- Armed Security Officer
- Corporate Security Officer
- Armed Patrol Officer
- Executive Protection Officer
- Government Contract Security Officer
- Hospital Security Officer
- Critical Infrastructure Security Officer
Many armed security positions offer higher earning potential than unarmed security roles.
Why Security Officers in Houston Upgrade to Level III
Benefits include:
- Higher pay opportunities
- Increased job availability
- Eligibility for armed assignments
- Better career advancement opportunities
- Enhanced professional credibility
For many security professionals, upgrading to Level III is one of the fastest ways to advance within the industry.
Cities We Serve Across Texas
AEPS Academy proudly serves students throughout Texas, including:
- Austin
- Houston
- San Antonio
- Dallas
- Fort Worth
- Waco
- Lubbock
- Amarillo
- Midland
- El Paso
No matter where you are located, our online training platform helps you complete your required coursework efficiently and compliantly.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Most students complete the online theory portion at their own pace. The total timeline depends on firearms qualification scheduling, fingerprinting, MMPI testing, and DPS processing times.
You can complete the theory portion online. Texas requires in-person firearms qualification and practical skills assessment.
Yes. Texas requires active sponsorship from a licensed security company before your commissioned registration can become active.
Yes. Once approved, you may work anywhere in Texas for a licensed employer.
Start Your Upgrade in Houston Today
The demand for trained armed security officers continues to grow throughout Texas. Don’t allow your career to remain limited to unarmed positions.
AEPS Academy provides Texas-approved online training designed to help security professionals advance into commissioned security officer roles while maintaining their current work schedules.
Complete your coursework online, receive your certificate, and take the next step toward becoming a commissioned security officer.
Contact Information
Bobby Gideon
American Eagle Protective Services
902 Crystal Falls Pkwy, Leander, TX 78641
(512) 947-3272
bgideon@aepscorp.com
